President and CEO of Destination Augusta, Bennish Brown, noted Myers’ impact in a recent interview with AugustaCEO.com, “Mark Myers embodies the true spirit of collaboration that drives Augusta’s tourism forward.”

The university’s Office of New Student and Family Transitions opened new doors by partnering with local businesses and nonprofit organizations for Leap Week this year. This explorative session started with just 60 students in 2022 and grew to include 650 students in 2024, thanks to Myers’ leadership.

The program allowed students to experience what the city offers through fun activities. They went kayaking on local waters, which undergraduate intern Jacquez Barnett noted was an effective way to blend recreation with the education of Augusta’s history.

Students experienced axe throwing and got creative with mug and splatter painting at nearby spots. Student coordinator Emily Mae Edmunds mentioned the positive impact of their work with students making hygiene kits for Project Refresh, taking on real local needs.

There’s more in store for student involvement with Myers’ and Destination Augusta’s partnership. “Together, we are making Augusta a destination that shines brighter every day,” says Brown.

New ideas will continue strengthening ties between the university and Augusta’s businesses, building relationships that help everyone.